The article reports that British Airways’ owner, alongside Ryanair, lobbied the UK government against measures such as implementing a frequent flyer levy. This act of lobbying contradicts the public interest in combating climate change and supporting net zero initiatives, reflecting a disturbing example of corporate influence that prioritizes profit over environmental and democratic accountability.

Airlines targeting net zero continue to lobby against climate policy in Europe, study claims

The new pay agreement at British Airways demonstrates a clear commitment to enhancing labor relations and protecting workers' rights. The significant salary increases, bonus provisions, profit sharing linked to performance, and the strong support of the union not only improve workers' financial stability, but also empower employees in an industry that has faced previous tensions over pay and conditions. This progressive step is viewed as a positive action against exploitative labor practices and thus reflects a strong stance in favor of social justice.

British Airways Staff Win Significant Pay Increase

The successful union-led pay award demonstrates a commitment to improved labor practices and worker rights at British Airways. This event underscores significant progress in worker remuneration and fair treatment, aligning with anti-fascist efforts to safeguard labor rights against exploitative practices. The scale of the award marks a positive development versus historical practices in corporate labor relations.

Unite wins significant pay award for British Airways staff

British Airways pursued a 'fire and rehire' policy during the Covid-19 pandemic that forced employees into new contracts with reduced pay and altered working conditions. The Employment Appeal Tribunal ruling against BA confirmed that such policies contributed to indirect associative discrimination, undermining the labor rights of workers and reflecting exploitative business practices that fuel systemic inequality. This decision signals BA’s failure to uphold fair labor practices and protect employee rights.

Employment Appeal Tribunal rules against British Airways

British Airways' 'fire and rehire' strategy during the pandemic, which altered employment terms without proper consultation, has disproportionately harmed employees, particularly those with caregiving responsibilities. The case, supported by the Equality and Human Rights Commission and challenged at the Employment Appeal Tribunal, highlights unethical labor practices that undermine worker rights.

BA takes on government over associative discrimination in ‘fire and rehire’ case

The reported $10,000 lobbying expenditure by British Airways in 2023, as detailed by OpenSecrets, indicates that the airline is engaging in political lobbying. From an anti-fascist perspective, such activity exemplifies how even mainstream corporations can contribute to the erosion of democratic processes by using financial means to influence policy. Although the amount is modest relative to some other corporate players, it still reflects an endorsement of political influence that may favor authoritarian outcomes.

British Airways Lobbying Profile • OpenSecrets

The secured pay increase is a clear positive development for labor relations at British Airways. The reversal of the previously attempted fire-and-rehire strategy, widely criticized for undermining worker rights, shows a commitment to improving working conditions and supporting union negotiations. While this marks progress, the legacy of past exploitative tactics still calls for ongoing scrutiny.

British Airways workers secure major pay increase following fire and rehire strategy

British Airways, as part of its broader corporate strategy, exerted economic influence by lobbying to weaken policies such as sustainable aviation fuel mandates and restrictions on fuel practices (e.g., tankering). These actions illustrate the company’s effort to shape regulatory frameworks in favor of its own structural interests.

Airlines downplayed climate science to block new regulations

The company’s opposition to mandatory emissions disclosure highlights a business practice that prioritizes corporate interests over ethical responsibility. British Airways’ efforts to avoid accountability for its high carbon emissions by obstructing transparency measures demonstrate a problematic ethical stance and contribute to a broader culture of corporate complicity in practices that can enable authoritarian outcomes.

British Airways pressured government to hide emissions data from customers | openDemocracy

By actively opposing the introduction of mandatory carbon emissions disclosure, British Airways neglects its ethical responsibility to provide transparent information to consumers. This approach prioritizes corporate convenience and cost-saving over environmental accountability, reducing informed consumer choice.

British Airways pressured government to hide emissions data from customers | openDemocracy